Trump Blames Aviation Inclusion Policies for Washington Air Crash
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U.S. President Donald Trump spoke about the air accident in Washington during a press conference, describing it as a "tragedy of terrible proportions."
"Our hearts are broken," he said before observing a moment of silence for the victims of the collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter.
Criticism of FAA Policies
Trump used the occasion to criticize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), claiming they had negatively impacted the hiring of key air traffic control personnel.
"The FAA was destroyed by DEI policies," he said. "They hired people not based on ability, but to meet quotas. We need the brightest and most qualified individuals in these positions."
He also blamed the previous administration, accusing former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg of prioritizing diversity over safety.
"Before my administration, the FAA was recruiting workers with severe disabilities for positions requiring mental agility and absolute precision," Trump stated.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth backed Trump’s comments, stating that the Department of Defense would ensure that all positions are filled by "the best and most prepared" personnel.
"The DEI era in government is over," Hegseth declared.
Details of the Crash
The incident occurred Wednesday night when a Bombardier CRJ700, operated by PSA Airlines, was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport with 64 passengers on board. The aircraft collided with a military helicopter, crashing into the Potomac River.
Authorities do not expect to find survivors due to low temperatures and adverse weather conditions.
Investigation and Future Measures
Investigators from the FAA, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and the U.S. Army have launched a comprehensive review of the crash. A key focus will be determining why the helicopter was at the same altitude and trajectory as the commercial aircraft at the time of impact.
Air traffic control audio recordings captured controllers asking the helicopter crew if they had visual contact with the jet.
Trump’s Response and Aviation Policy Changes
Trump announced that he will appoint an interim FAA commissioner and reaffirmed his commitment to review hiring policies in the aviation sector.
"We will restore the standards that once made our aviation industry the best in the world," he assured.
Additionally, he suggested a review of military training exercises near high-traffic airports like Washington’s Reagan National Airport.
Rescue Operations and Airport Status
Flight operations at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport have resumed, while rescue teams continue recovering bodies and aircraft debris from the Potomac River.
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